Overview:
India’s commanding NRR of +3.337 puts qualification firmly in their control. A victory over Pakistan would secure first place in Group 2 and set up a semi-final clash against Afghanistan.
All eyes will be on Bulawayo as India and Pakistan lock horns in a crucial Under-19 World Cup 2026 Super Six fixture on Sunday. India, captained by Ayush Mhatre, are placed just ahead of Pakistan in Group 2 standings. England’s comprehensive win over New Zealand earlier in the week confirmed their passage to the last four. With three semi-final spots already filled by Afghanistan, England, and Australia, this contest will determine which of the two rivals advances.
The path to the semi-finals and the likely knockout fixtures are as follows.
England
England sit at the summit of Group 2 with eight points. A Pakistan victory over India would see England retain top spot and set up a semi-final against Afghanistan. However, India’s win would push England down to second, lining up a clash with Australia in the knockout stage.
India
India’s commanding NRR of +3.337 puts qualification firmly in their control. A victory over Pakistan would secure first place in Group 2 and set up a semi-final clash against Afghanistan. While defeat remains a possibility, India’s advantage in points and run rate still leaves the door open for progression.
Pakistan
A straight victory will not be sufficient for Pakistan to progress. They need to outplay India by a margin of at least 85 runs. In a chase, the target must be overhauled inside 31.5 overs or within 33.2 overs if the target stands at 250.
What explains the two-point gap between India and Pakistan?
Despite each side claiming one victory in the Super Six stage, Pakistan remain two points behind India. The same points deficit was present against England at the start of the round. This difference stems from the tournament rule allowing teams to bring forward points and net run rate from the group phase, but only results earned against fellow qualifiers are counted.